In the U.S. South during the early 1800s, skilled leather workers and saddle makers artfully designed and crafted thick-leather baskets as symbolic and useable gifts to young, betrothed (about to be married) women. These handmade leather baskets signified their new role as keeper of the keys, the gatekeeper for the homestead. Accordingly, the smaller versions of the baskets were called key baskets and the young women used them to carry the keys of various buildings, sheds, cottages and gates of the homestead. Intended to last for generations, many have been handed down within the same family for more than 100 years.
Thick-leather baskets are a true example of the fine craftsmanship of early American leather workers. Using only the thickest American saddle leather and traditional and time-tested craftsmanship, we have recreated heirloom-quality saddle leather baskets, practically sizing them for today’s needs. Like the original versions, these handmade baskets are truly works of art.
BAEKS baskets are authentic, handcrafted collectibles and come with a thick-leather hangtag explaining their heritage. For collectors, along with the initials of the craftsman each BAEKS basket has a date and unique number that is actually branded on the bottom with the BAEKS logo - your guarantee of getting a genuine BAEKS. The Legacy set includes all three size baskets identically numbered.
We know they can become treasured heirlooms in your family, to be enjoyed for generations to come with stories of family history being passed down with them.
In the U.S. South during the early 1800s, skilled leather workers and saddle makers artfully designed and crafted thick-leather baskets as symbolic and useable gifts to young, betrothed (about to be married) women. These handmade leather baskets signified their new role as keeper of the keys, the gatekeeper for the homestead. Accordingly, the smaller versions of the baskets were called key baskets and the young women used them to carry the keys of various buildings, sheds, cottages and gates of the homestead. Intended to last for generations, many have been handed down within the same family for more than 100 years.